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Saturday, March 31, 2012

So most of you do not know that I LOVED SELENA!! SELENA was the Tejano music artist who took the Latino music world and made it hers. All the little girls, including me, wanted to be just like her. As a fan, I loved her spirit and energy that she always showed her fans on stage and off. I went to every concert here in Houston, including the Rodeo one where she performed in the famous beautiful purple outfit. I received a copy of this book to read and I am so glad Chris wrote it. As a true fan, we always said we were robbed. SELENA had so much for us and she was taken too early. Before her death, she had just mainstreamed into English music. Her voice was different from anyone, and up to this day no-one has replaced her or ever could. Every year I remember her on her birthday like if she was part of my family. Today is SELENA's birthday. April 16, 1971 – March 31, 1995 WE LOVE YOU, SELENA!

Anyways, my thoughts about the book-It is great. Thank you Chris. I always knew their love was true. It is a must read for all SELENA fans. Get behind the scenes into their lives. Find out how they met, and their love progressed. I loved every minute of every word, and every page. Closure is hard, and think for some of us fans, as well as Chris, we never got that. But at least with this book, we can all start the healing together.

“Lots of people asked me to write our story after Selena passed. I always said no. My feelings were too private... I was too busy desperately trying to wall off that part of my life completely...I have begun to realize that, by burying everything, I've actually been living my life with blinders on, just putting one foot in front of the other without really moving forward at all...Selena loved as hard as she lived. We loved her in return – her family, her friends, her fans, and me, her husband, who felt like the luckiest man alive every time Selena said my name. This book is for her."
– Chris Perez, from “TO SELENA, WITH LOVE”

Vesper Public Relations: Los Angeles, February 28, 2012. In 1995, Selena was the most popular Tejano recording star in the world, and she was looking forward to a future that seemed like a dream. After years of traveling the country in a bus, struggling to make a name for her, Selena had finally found success: a number one single, a Grammy Award, an upcoming English language album and, most importantly, a husband that she loved and was looking forward to building a life, and a family, with. But in a flash, it was all taken away. After her shocking murder, husband Chris Pérez was left to pick up the pieces of his life and find a way to move forward. Now, for the first time, Pérez tells his story in the intimate and moving book.

From joining Selena’s band and realizing he was falling in love with her, to hiding their relationship and finally confessing to her family, getting married and buying a house, and planning their future family, Pérez details their ups and downs truthfully, meaningfully, and movingly. And his honesty is never more devastating then in his description of the black hole of depression he fell into after Selena’s death. “TO SELENA, WITH LOVE” is the never-before-told story of the man who loved a superstar, his wife, and had to cope with losing her at the hands of a brutal murderer who was once considered a friend.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Chris Perez is a Grammy-winning American guitarist and the widower of superstar recording artist Selena. He won a Latin Grammy for his 2000 solo album, Resurrection. Since 2006 he has been a guitarist for A.B. Quintanilla III y Los Kumbia All Starz. He lives in San Antonio, TX.

Penguin Group (USA) Inc. is the U.S. member of the internationally renowned Penguin Group. Penguin Group (USA) is one of the leading U.S. adult and children’s trade book publishers, owning a wide range of imprints and trademarks, including Berkley Books, Dutton, Frederick Warne, G.P. Putnam’s Sons, Grosset & Dunlap, New American Library, Penguin, Philomel, Riverhead Books and Viking, among others. The Penguin Group is part of Pearson plc, the international media company.

***Disclosure-I received a copy of this book to review. I am a true SELENA fan!! Always will be! These are my honest opinions. This book has been Independentmami read and Independentmami approved!!

Friday, March 30, 2012

Neutrogenaâ Oil-Free Acne Wash, the number one acne fighting cleanser, recommended by dermatologists and NEUTROGENA® Oil-Free Acne Pink Grapefruit line, the best-selling acne line. The line now includes the NEW NEUTROGENA® Oil-Free Cleansing Wipes Pink Grapefruit for Acne-Prone Skin. These soft pre-moistened wipes are great for on-the-go use, sweeping away pore-clogging dirt and oil in one simple step with a refreshing Pink Grapefruit scent.

My thoughts-I love this line. Not my first time trying it out. It is oil-free. I love the Grapefruit smell. It does not burn or damage the skin. It is great. And it is a complete line to use from start to finish. Love the cleansing wipes.

This giveaway ends 4/26/12 at 8 am. 1 winner will be randomly selected. The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Please leave your email in the comment. Good Luck.

***Disclosure-No monetary compensation was received. Sample product was received to review. This product has been Independentmami tested, and Independentmami approved. These are my honest opinions.

Please let us know your comments about the line; your feedback is very important to us. We hope that you like the products and that you can share a review with your audience. Also, we would like to offer you one $35 value prizes worth of product for you to give away within your audience, please let us know if you are interested.

The Latest Installment of the Blockbuster Movie Franchise Cruises on to Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Download March 27 Also Available in an “Island Adventure” Edition with Additional Fun Features Including Sing-Alongs, Games and More! LOS ANGELES (February 7th, 2012) – Everyone’s favorite chipmunks Alvin, Simon and Theodore, and their female companions, The Chipettes, have the time of their lives during a family vacation they’ll never forget in ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED, debuting on Blu-ray, DVD and digital download on March 27 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. The hilarious live-action comedy will also be available as an exciting “Island Adventure” edition on Blu-ray and 2-Disc DVD, filled with tons of fun for the whole family to enjoy just in time for Easter. The Chipmunks, Chipettes and their caretaker Dave Sevelle (Jason Lee; “My Name is Earl”) embark on a trip of a lifetime aboard the Carnival Dream cruise ship. Seeking fun and excitement, the Chipmunks turn the luxury cruise liner into their own personal playground. But the ultimate vacation quickly becomes a disaster when the Chipmunks, Dave and Carnival cruise pelican mascot, who turns out to be the chipmunks’ old manager, Ian Hawke (David Cross; Megamind), accidentally fall overboard and find themselves ‘Chipwrecked’ on a remote island. Stuck in an unfamiliar territory, the six furry castaways are separated from Dave and must figure out a way to survive on their own for the first time in their lives. Written and produced by husband and wife duo Ross Bagdasarian, Jr. and Janice Karman, ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED features a star-studded voice cast with Justin Long (Dodgeball) as Alvin, Mathew Gray Gubler (“Criminal Minds”) as Simon, Jesse McCartney (Horton Hears a Who!) as Theodore, Christina Applegate (“Up All Night) as Brittany, Anna Faris (What’s Your Number?) as Jeanette, and Amy Poehler (“Parks and Recreation”) as Eleanor. Alvin and the Chipmunks began as an American animated music group in 1958 that was developed by Ross Bagdasarian, Sr. who created a one-of-a-kind singing trio consisting of three animated chipmunks, Alvin, Simon and Theodore. Nearly six decades later, the franchise boasts an impressive collection of music albums, children’s books, video games, Television shows, Television specials, and animated and live-action feature films. In addition, Alvin and the Chipmunks has received several awards including five Grammy Awards®, two Kids Choice Awards®, and an American Music Awards®, among others, and continues to entertain families with a lovable characters as shown in its latest live-action film installment, ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED. Showcasing a variety of popular songs from Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” to LMFAO’s “Party Rock Anthem,” fans can get munked with the Munk Music & Dance Machine special feature on the ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED Blu-ray and DVD. Additional special features on the Blu-ray and DVD include sing-a-long music videos, behind-the-scenes featurettes, extended scenes, and more. Fans can also enjoy an exciting Chipwrecked: Coloring with The Chipmunks App, featured exclusively on the Blu-ray Disc. The film will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and $29.98 respectively, and the two-disc Island Adventure edition will be available for $34.98.

This giveaway ends 4/1/12 at the end of day 11:59 p.m. 5 winners will be randomly selected to win, and will have to claim their prize within 24 hours. US only. Please leave your email in the comment. Good Luck!!

The new "Stereo Vinyl Cruiser" was inspired by three things: skateboarding, music, and fun. A throwback to the 70s-era skateboards that Stereo founders Jason Lee and Chris Pastras rode as kids, the "Stereo Vinyl Cruiser" represents a type of skateboarding anyone can be a part of- cruising. These boards can be just as easily enjoyed by a child learning
to skate for the first time as they can by a seasoned skater surfing down a hill. Young, old, boy or girl, the toy-like cruiser is skateboarding at its most fun. The "Stereo Vinyl Cruiser" is available through amazon.com or a skate shop near you at the affordable price of just $79.95 and comes complete and ready to roll. So get yours today, get out there and get riding! Enjoy!

#Win Alvin and the Chipmunks:Chipwrecked and a $80 skateboard @independentmami 4/19 #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/brhsfw8

This giveaway ends 4/19 at 8 am. 1 winner will be randomly chosen. Please leave your email in the comment. I reserve the right to disqualify anyone not following the rules. US only. The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize.

One of the most beloved stories of all time is coming to life in the motion picture event, Mirror Mirror. A fresh and funny retelling of the Snow White legend, Mirror Mirror features breakout star Lily Collins (The Blind Side) as Snow White, a princess in exile, and Oscar®-winner Julia Roberts as the evil Queen who ruthlessly rules her captured kingdom. Seven courageous rebel dwarfs join forces with Snow White as she fights to reclaim her birthright and win her Prince in this magical adventure comedy filled with jealousy, romance and betrayal that will capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences the world over. The film also stars Armie Hammer (The Social Network) as the Prince and Nathan Lane (The Birdcage) as the hapless and bungling servant to the Queen.

My thoughts-My 13 y old son thought it was good. My mom thought it was funny. I loved it. I love how the story is told. It is great for the entire family to go see. It really is funny. We laughed the entire movie. I loved Snow!! Julia Roberts was hilarious!

Movie comes out today!! Perfect for the weekend, and family fun!

***Disclosure-No compensation was received. I was invited to an advance screening of this movie to review. This movie has been Independentmami seen and Independentmami approved!! These are my honest opinions.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Breakout star Lily Collins stars as Snow White, a princess in exile, and Oscar-winner Julia Roberts as the evil Queen who ruthlessly rules her captured kingdom in Mirror Mirror, a fresh and funny retelling of the classic fairytale. In their interview with Maria Salas, entertainment reporter and film critic for Terra , the two actresses dish about the hunky Armie Hammer as Prince Charming and their favorite majestic wardrobe in the film.

What's it like for "America's Sweetheart" to play the evil Queen? Watch Julia Roberts answer how she explains her role of the evil Queen to her kids in this fun interview with the two stars of "Mirror Mirror", which will be in theaters this Friday.

Visit http://terratv.terra.com/videos/Entertainment/Movies-and-TV/Movies-with-Maria/8737-379812/Julia-o-Lily-%C2%BFDime-espejito-cual-es-la-mas-bella-en-Mirror-Mirror.htm to watch the full interview!

The Festival fun includes the Sunday only appearance of JAMES MASLOW, who stars as JAMES DIAMOND in Nickelodeon's BIG TIME RUSH and popular boy band by the same name.
And on Saturday Radio Disney presents RAINI RODRIQUEZ, who stars as TRISH on the Disney Channel's Original Series "AUSTIN & ALLY."
Plus 6 stages of music & entertainment and 10 big Family Adventure Areas, including Baker Hughes Circustown, Apache Super Science World, H-E-B Healthy Kids Zone, Child Advocates Kid's Korral, SABIC Monster Math Zone, Green Mountain Energy Company Green Zone, McDonalds Family Fitness Zone, Chobani Champions Bus Tour, Cumulus Radio Kid's Corner, and El Paso Energy Tile Painting Corner.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Xia-Xia Pets are electronic pet crabs that are full of surprises. Each pet crab comes with a colorful hermit crab shell and a little friend inside.

Additional hermit crab shells are sold separately, and all of the crab toys can wear any of the hermit crab shells.

Adorable, dancing crabs from the magical land of Xia-topia. Have fun exploring Xia-XiaPets.com, where you can find out even more about the dancing crab toys that are skitter-scattering their way into everyone's hearts!

A laugh-filled, heartwarming animated tale, "The Lion of Judah" is an Easter classic inspiration for the whole family. Join Judah & The Stable-Mates as they embark on a ROARING adventure towards freedom! This daring quest intertwines humor and troublesome situations, while delivering foundational messages with gentleness and breath-taking beauty. For Judah, a lamb with the heart of a lion, it is a story of courage that will lead you to the pivotal voyage of hope, and will leave you in awe of the power that one lamb can command. "The Lion of Judah" is rated PG and is 5-Star Dove Approved for the whole family!

"Lion of Judah" this "faith oriented" animated film was released on March 27th.

My thoughts-The movie is adorable. It is perfect for kids and families. And is age appropiate for smaller kids. It also is a perfect basket stuffer for the Easter baskets.

Hollywood Records recently announced today the signing of McClain Sisters, comprised of China Anne McClain, star of Disney Channel’s hit series A.N.T. FARM, and her sisters Lauryn, and Sierra, a trio whose captivating talent and undeniable star quality will inevitably end the music industry’s decades-long quest for a best-selling girl-group. “We are thrilled to have China Anne, Lauryn, and Sierra, join our music family,” commented Executive Vice President of Disney Music Group, Ken Bunt. “They are three exceptionally talented young artists with a very exciting road ahead of them.” McClain Sisters lead singer China Anne McClain is an acclaimed young actress who, in addition to starring in Disney Channel’s A.N.T. FARM, a role for which she received a 2012 NAACP Image Award nomination, also starred in the House of Payne television series and the movie The Gospel. The talented trio’s mounting popularity is evidenced by accomplishments such as the A.N.T. FARM soundtrack’s soaring debut at #29 on the Billboard 200, which includes tracks by McClain Sisters “Electronic Apology” and “Perfect Mistake,” as well as notable acting roles in the Tyler Perry feature film Daddy’s Little Girls and a recent performance for more than 72,000 at RODEOHOUSTON 2012. "We are beyond happy to be joining the Hollywood Records family,” shared the McClain Sisters. “Music has always been a part of our lives and now we cannot wait to share our music with everyone.” “Rise,” written and performed by McClain Sisters after being inspired by Disneynature’s feature film CHIMPANZEE, is the latest Disney Friends for Change anthem. With the motivating lyrics “Together we can do anything,” the song captures the central message of the program: when kids and families work together, they can inspire each other and their communities to make a lasting, positive change in the world. “Rise” is the fourth Friends for Change anthem to be released with a benefit back to the Disney Worldwide Conservation Fund. This contribution marks nearly $1 million awarded through the music campaign to charities working to protect the planet and conserve nature for future generations.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

FUN FACTS
· “Marvel’s The Avengers” is based on the Marvel comic created by Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. The first “Avengers” comic was published in September 1963 and the lineup consisted of Iron Man, Thor, Hulk, Ant-Man and Wasp. Captain America joined the team in Issue #4, after being revived from being trapped in a block of ice. This film brings together Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Captain America (Chris Evans), Hulk (Mark Ruffalo), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) and Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) when they are called to duty by S.H.I.E.L.D. Director Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson).
· Production on “Marvel’s The Avengers” commenced on April 25, 2011, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where the production shot onstage at Albuquerque Studios and various locations in and around the city until Thursday, July 28th. Other filming locations included Wilmington, Ohio; Worthington, Pennsylvania; Cleveland, Ohio and New York City. The shoot lasted a total of 93 shooting days on 1st unit and 47 shooting days on 2nd unit.
· The huge, impressive Helicarrier Bridge set was built on a soundstage in Albuquerque. This iconic home base for the peacekeeping organization S.H.I.E.L.D., whose director is Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), resembles an aircraft carrier, but it’s no ordinary carrier—it can actually fly. The filmmakers wanted to embrace that key element of The Avengers history and give the fans a real thrill when it takes to the air. To achieve the exterior of the Helicarrier, the filmmakers shot on a runway at the Albuquerque International Sunport.
· Another classic Marvel vehicle, the Quinjet, is also making an appearance in the movie. The Quinjet is essentially the jump jet that The Avengers use to go to and from the Helicarrier and to go into battles. The Quinjet design fits in with the Helicarrier—the same technology that allows the Helicarrier to work has been incorporated into the Quinjet. But at the same time the silhouette of the Quinjet, the cockpit, the engines on the back and the weaponry make it feel as though it could actually exist today.
· In the very first issue of the comic book “The Avengers,” almost 50 years ago, it was Loki, Thor’s brother, who was causing the trouble that brought all the Avengers together for the first time to defeat him. In the making of the movie, Marvel stayed true to that setup. Loki, played by Tom Hiddleston, is a much stronger villain on Earth than he is in his own world of Asgard and wreaks havoc in “Marvel’s The Avengers.” · Chris Hemsworth (Thor) felt that being on location was like summer camp, where no one really knows each other but everyone hangs out together and has a great time. However, Hemsworth did know Tom Hiddleston (Loki) from “Thor” and developed a great relationship with him on that film that carried over to “Marvel’s The Avengers.”
· To play expert archer Hawkeye, Jeremy Renner received training from Olympic archers on how to use a bow properly. He learned the basics of archery as well as the proper positions, but one of the most difficult tasks Renner had to master was the consistency he had to employ in drawing back the bow, which is difficult to do when drawing back fast.
· Scarlett Johansson was more than happy to reprise her role as Black Widow in “Marvel’s The Avengers.” The talented actress says she is a huge fan of the character and is happy that fans liked her as Black Widow, a role she originated in “Iron Man 2.” In “Marvel’s The Avengers,” during her scenes with another highly skilled S.H.I.E.L.D. operative, Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner), the audience will be let in on some of their backstory and get a glimpse of their longtime working relationship.
· When the cast and crew of “ Marvel’s The Avengers” flew from Albuquerque to Wilmington, Ohio, they didn’t have to go far to reach their new shooting location. The production’s charter flight landed right next to the film set at Clinton County Airpark, a massive complex complete with a 9,000-foot runway and a one million square foot, state-of-the-art shipping facility that would double in the film for parts of the interior of the iconic Helicarrier.
· The famous battle cry in the comic book, “Avengers Assemble!” is a call to arms for members of the team to fight “the foes no single superhero can withstand.” During production, Chris Evans (Captain America) borrowed the famous command to gather up his fellow cast members when he sent out text messages to them to come together for a night on the town in Albuquerque after a long, hard week of work on the production.
· Shooting in Central Park is never easy, but what about when you put the entire cast of the film at Bethesda Fountain on Labor Day weekend? The cast, crew and filmmakers got to find out firsthand as thousands of onlookers gathered to see something that held the attention of even the most hardened New Yorker—the entire cast of “Marvel’s The Avengers” in costume, including Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and Loki (Tom Hiddleston) in their Asgardian finery. For the actors in the film it would be the first time they were all on set together in over a month and also the last time they would be shooting together. For director Joss Whedon the challenge was to keep his cast focused. “It was like a circus crossed with a class reunion,” laughs the director. “Paparazzi and fans were everywhere and the cast was so happy to see each other, talk and catch up because they enjoyed hanging out together.”
· The film’s second unit shot a chase sequence in Worthington, Pennsylvania, at Creekside Mushroom LTD, the former home to World Famous Moonlight® brand Mushrooms. Creekside was the world’s largest mushroom-growing facility and the only underground mushroom farm in the United States. For the production, shooting at the facility meant gaining access to the 150 miles of tunnels 300 feet below the ground. Without power, prepping the tunnels for the chase sequences that involved Loki (Tom Hiddleston), Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Agent Maria Hill (Cobie Smulders) took months—but it all paid off with spectacular results.
· With so many fight sequences in the film, many of the actors, including Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Scarlett Johansson and Jeremy Renner, participated in extensive fight training with the stunt team. Cast members trained with fight choreographer Jonathan Eusebio. Renaming the gym the “Stunt Dojo,” Eusebio and his team trained the cast in different fighting styles, including medieval fighting techniques, Wushu, Kung Fu and Kali.
· For three weeks, the production shut down East 9th Street in Downtown Cleveland to prep and shoot one of the larger action sequences. It was the talk of the town for months and attracted thousands of curious onlookers, who watched the street transform from empty buildings to a bustling New York City street complete with subway stop and popular storefronts with facades. The production design was so convincing that rumors circulated about new stores opening on the street.
· Another challenge for the production design team was transforming Cleveland’s historic Public Square into an exterior location that would double for Stuttgart, Germany. The production changed words on the facades of the buildings to German and added a ”biergarten” to the square. Local workers in the area loved the changes and hoped the upgrades to the square (new flowers, plants, picnic tables and lampposts) would stay in place after filming was completed.
· Despite being a secure location that only cast and crew members could access, one fan’s persistence caught the eye of “The Avengers” cast and crew at the Airpark set in Wilmington, Ohio, when she made a big poster-board sign welcoming the cast to the city and requesting that the actors autograph a T-shirt that was in a bag. The sign was such a hit with the company that they passed it to the set. Filmmakers were able to contact the fan and she was given a tour of the set, an “Avengers” crew hat, a meet and greet with director Joss Whedon and, of course, the cast’s autographs on the T-shirt she had placed by the sign. It truly was a day to remember for one lifelong Marvel fan.
· Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Tom Hiddleston was not exposed to American sports, but that all changed during production as he was able to watch a Cleveland Browns preseason football game on the sidelines, attend a Cleveland Indians game, throw out the first pitch, and be courtside at the US Open to watch several matches.
· In shooting one of the bigger action sequences in the film, director Joss Whedon enlisted the help of 25 members of the Ohio-based 391st Military Police Battalion to be part of the scene in which New York City is being attacked by unknown forces. The troops were brought in to add a layer of authenticity and give the combat scenes realism. And realism is exactly what the MPs delivered with their 50-caliber machine guns and Mark-19s. The film crew was blown away by their firepower and teamwork and Whedon was also impressed and appreciative as he posed for pictures with the Battalion after the scene was completed.
· For special effects to pull off the destruction of a New York City street, special effects supervisor Dan Sudick involved precision pyrotechnics and well-timed car gags so that the production’s stunt people could safely maneuver through the explosions and flipping cars. To pull off the large pyrotechnic event, Sudick and his team rigged 28 explosions, which went off in a wave fashion down the street to simulate an air attack. The sequence also included setting up 14 cars down the middle of the street, which included ‘cannon cars,’ ‘flipper cars,’ ‘pyro’ cars as well as a big semi truck that exploded. Sudick and his team pulled off the impressive sequence without a hitch and even though it was shot on East 9th Street in downtown Cleveland, it still made the cover of the New York Post with the headline: “Save us, Thor!”

Notes:
• “Chimpanzee” is the fourth release for Disneynature, the first new Disney-branded film label from The Walt Disney Studios in more than 60 years. The label was launched in April 2008 to bring the world’s top nature filmmakers together to capture a variety of wildlife subjects and stories.
• The first three releases under the Disneynature label—“Earth,” “Oceans” and “African Cats”—are among the top four highest grossing feature-length nature films of all time.
• Walt Disney was a pioneer in wildlife documentary filmmaking, producing 13 True-Life Adventure motion pictures between 1948 and 1960, including “Seal Island” (1948), “Beaver Valley” (1950), “The Living Desert” (1953) and “Jungle Cat” (1958). The films earned eight Academy Awards®. In theaters Earth Day 2012, Disneynature’s newest True-Life Adventure introduces Oscar, a young chimp whose playful curiosity and zest for discovery light up the African forest until a twist of fate leaves Oscar to fend for himself with a little help from an unexpected ally.

So my lil girl has grown a little and is now 3 months. And she is still kicking those socks off, and well none of her shoes fit. With Spring and Summer right around the corner, what is a mother to do...

ToeBlooms are the perfect accessories for baby girls from newborn to 12 months, and can be worn on bare feet or over socks. The products are available in two styles: Blooming Toes (which loop around the toe) and Blooming Wraps (which wrap around the foot).

My thoughts-I love these. They are the perfect size, and fit. My daughter can wear them everywhere. They are too cute. It will def make an outfit for those coordinating. No need to worry about our babies feet being messed up with shoes.

***Disclosure-No monetary compensation was received. Samples were provided to review. Toe Blooms have been Gia tested, and Independentmami approved! These are my honest opinions.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Most of you who read my blog know that I ended up having a high-risk pregnancy. And being informed to me is the best for these moms. I know for sure, I wanted to read and know all the facts. What caused it? What happened? What could I have done? So I am passing this information along...

Understanding and Managing a Potential Preterm Pregnancy
Every year, 1 million U.S. women with high-risk pregnancies are placed on bed rest to protect their developing babies. Despite that, every year, about 500,000 newborns – one of every eight – arrive too early, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Enduring a high-risk pregnancy can be an overwhelming experience of stress, fear and unknowns, leading to more questions than answers. Many of these moms adhere to strict regimes of bed rest; face major changes in lifestyle and relationships; and are subject to dozens of doctor visits and even surgery or medications to protect their unborn children. For them, birth may not be the joy-filled event most families expect.

Knowing those feelings all too well, research scientist Kelly Whitehead wrote High-Risk Pregnancy: Why Me? Understanding and Managing a Potential Preterm Pregnancy (www.hrpwhyme.com), which is backed by fetal and maternal medicine specialist Dr. Vincenzo Berghella, a top pre-term birth researcher. Whitehead’s first child died following his premature birth. During her next pregnancy, she spent 4½ months in bed worrying over and trying to protect her daughter.

The book is both a medical reference and provides emotional support for mothers-to-be, with Whitehead providing answers in layman’s terms to the myriad medical questions families have. Whitehead also shares coping strategies she discovered, along with what she’s learned through benefit of hindsight, and insights from other mothers.
• Try to enjoy being pregnant. Don’t miss out on this experience because you’re high-risk. Do the normal prego things, even if you have to modify them: Shop online, get a belly cast, shoot expanding-belly photos, and savor those kicks and body changes. Don’t forget or stop dreaming about the actual birth and your desires for what it will be like. I regretted missing out on so much while carrying my daughter. Rather than enjoying the pregnancy, I kept focused on the end and my hope she would survive.
• Don’t let your emotions become your enemy. Say goodbye to guilt – this is not your fault! It’s okay to be bitter, angry and upset at the world, and to hate “normal” pregnant women, but it isn’t going to change anything. So go get mad, yell, and cry, and then move on.
• Pelvic rest sounds easy, but it isn’t. It’s not fun being forced to become a nun, so don’t. There are still ways to enjoy intimacy; you just need to get creative. Think high school – remember how much fun necking was? Try body oil, a massage…whipped cream? Sexy lingerie is still hot, even if you’re pregnant. Flaunt your new assets - they surely went up a cup size or two.
• Educate yourself about your situation. Don’t go reading about every other possible scenario out there; you don’t need to worry about problems that aren’t a likely issue for you.
• Ask and you shall receive. It may sometimes feel as though people have forgotten about you, but the reality is they’re busy and they have no idea what’s it’s like for you. If you want company, reach out and invite someone over.
“I know it’s tough to be going through a high-risk pregnancy and living in fear every day,” Whitehead says. “Though this will be the toughest time of your life, many of us have been through it and now have our children. You can, too.

“Keep your chin up and keep hoping. Healthy babies are born every day to families who’ve walked the same path.”
About Kelly Whitehead
Kelly Whitehead is a scientist-mom, who lost a preemie son and went on to have two high-risk pregnancies. She wrote High-Risk Pregnancy: Why Me? Understanding and Managing a Potential Preterm Pregnancy as an educational tool and emotional guide for those experiencing a difficult pregnancy and the providers who work with them. She is also a trained doula, birth advocate and spokesperson for Sidelines National High Risk Pregnancy Support Network. For more information, check out www.hrpwhyme.com.

From producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Gore Verbinski comes Disney/Bruckheimer Films' THE LONE RANGER. Tonto (Johnny Depp), a spirit warrior on a personal quest, joins forces in a fight for justice with John Reid (Armie Hammer), a lawman who has become a masked avenger.

"JAKE AND THE NEVER LAND PIRATES: PETER PAN RETURNS”
Arrives on DVD and Digital Copy April 3

Synopsis: Peter Pan is back––but his shadow is missing! When Peter loses his shadow while playing a game of Catch-Me-If-You-Can, he returns to Never Land to seek help from his kid pirate friend Jake. Embarking on one of his most daring and exciting adventures ever, Jake and his kid pirate pals, Izzy and Cubby, along with lookout parrot Skully, must use teamwork to find Peter’s shadow and return it to its rightful owner. However, their mission is nearly thwarted by the fiendish Captain Hook, and his bumbling first mate Mr. Smee. But bravery and justice win the day and Jake and his Never Land pirate crew once again reveal what it takes to become heroes, in Disney’s “Jake and the Never Land Pirates: Peter Pan Returns.”

Kids can set sail with Jake on Disney DVD April 3. Packed with more value than ever before, “Jake and the Never Land Pirates: Peter Pan Returns” comes with over two hours of content on DVD, Jake’s first digital copy.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Introducing DiaperPods. It's a new evolution in diaper technology. It controls odor and provides a convenient and sanitary disposal method, in the form of a disposable receptacle built right into a diaper. Designed with safety and sanitation in mind, the receptacle is packed and sealed into a pod located in the rear of the diaper.<p><p><p><p><p>http://www.youtube.com/embed/bgC_BbMypoM</a>" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></p></p></p></p></p>
You are not going to believe how easy this will make your life! And...you can use those grocery bags for plenty of other things. It's truly a "Why didn't I think of that?" idea.

My thoughts-Yes, why did I not think of this idea. How many times have you had a dirty diaper and cannot dispose of it? I have a 3 month old baby girl who is putting me to the test. I would have loved to have DiaperPods 13 years ago. I love that the baggie is so thin you cannot even tell it really is there. It does not bother the baby at all. It is really easy to use because it is right where you need it, on the diaper. No more need to carry a stinky diaper. I love this innovative idea. It is a new mommies must have.

***Disclosure-No compensation was received. Samples provided for review. These are my honest opinions.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Tattooed by Inky is a high quality colorful body spray collection that is sold at Target stores at an affordable price of $5.99 for each, which makes it both kid and parent friendly—a perfect Easter basket addition! Targeted to a young audience, lightly fragranced body sprays have become a popular everyday beauty/grooming essential for both girls and boys. Tattooed By Inky collection offers 5 distinctive scents---two for boys and three for girls.

My thoughts-These spray bottles are so cool. I like how they smell. The fragrances are very nice for both boys and girls. The price is even better for a full size bottle. I like that there is a unisex fragance (KOI) for families with both tween boys and girls. My 13 yr old son really liked trying the fragrance (Monkey Business) out. He really liked it. Be the cool mom and get your tweens these fragrances for their Easter basket, goodie bags, or just a everyday essential.

Monkey Business - for the smart, funny no-nonsense guy. Has a bold blend of leather, lavender, pepper, and sandalwood. (male)

Drako - for the strong, enigmatic and fiery guy with an elemental blend of spices, musk, and precious woods. (male)

A Mi Amor - vividly captures all your loving feelings of passion and romance with a complex blend of white florals, vanilla, and amber. (female)

Sudden Freedom - for the confident, vibrant and independent woman who reaches for the stars and inpires others to do the same. A fresh and feminine bouquet of aquatic florals, pink jasmine and warm rosewood, this scent innately captures your charismatic spirit and style.(female)

KOI - for the easy going, colorful personality and affectionate nature who also has a resilient strength and courage of convictions. An intricate blend of radiant citrus, ginger and the warmth of patchouli, KOI shows off your many sides.

***Disclosure-No monetary compenssation was received. Sample product was received to review. These are our honest opinions.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

In Tim Burton’s “Frankenweenie” young Victor conducts a science experiment to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life, only to face unintended, sometimes monstrous, consequences.

Fun facts:

When Tim Burton originally conceived the idea for “Frankenweenie,” he envisioned it as a full-length, stop-motion animated film. Due to budget constraints, he instead directed it as a live-action short, released in 1984.
“Frankenweenie” follows in the footsteps of Tim Burton’s other stop-motion animated films “Corpse Bride” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas”—both of which were nominated for Academy Awards®.
Over 200 puppets and sets were created for the film.
The voice cast includes four actors who worked with Burton on previous films: Winona Ryder (“Beetlejuice,” “Edward Scissorhands”), Catherine O’Hara (“Beetlejuice,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas”), Martin Short (“Mars Attacks!”) and Martin Landau (“Ed Wood,” Sleepy Hollow”).
Several of the character names—Victor, Elsa Van Helsing, Edgar “E” Gore and Mr. Burgemeister— were inspired by classic horror films.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Everyone knows that “Trix are for kids,” and now Yoplait Trix yogurt is giving moms even more reasons to love it! Yoplait Trix yogurt has been reformulated to remove artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, and high fructose corn syrup, but only you will know the difference! Whether it’s for an afterschool snack or the highlight of your kid’s lunch box, now you can feel even better about giving your kids the snack that has the same great taste with two bright natural colors in every cup that they can enjoy every day.

With the same great taste that kids love and the wholesome goodness of real Yoplait® yogurt that moms appreciate, Yoplait Trix yogurt packs a good source of Calcium and Vitamin D

Available in 4-cup packs, with two bright, natural color combinations that can be swirled or eaten at once in every cup, kids can choose from five flavors: Strawberry Punch, Strawberry Banana Bash, Raspberry Rainbow, Triple Cherry, and Cotton Candy

US Family Guide

FitFluential

Cypress Half Marathon 2011

2013 Aramco 13.1

2014 Aramco 13.1

Biggest Loser RunWalk 2014

This Mami Travels

My DisCloSure

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